Baylor Bear Mascot Ejected for Targeting After Body-Slamming Opposing Fan
Refs Confirm: “Yes, Even Live Mascots Must Follow NCAA Rules”
WACO, TX — Chaos erupted at McLane Stadium on Saturday afternoon after Baylor’s beloved live mascot, Judge Indy the bear, was ejected from the game for targeting — becoming the first non-human ever penalized under NCAA rules.
It all started midway through the second quarter of the Bears’ heated rivalry matchup, when an overly confident visiting fan wearing a burnt orange Texas jersey wandered too close to Judge Indy’s enclosure. Witnesses say the fan was taunting the bear, waving a foam finger and chanting “Sic ‘Em? More like Sit Down!”
In a moment that can only be described as pure instinct and a little bit of gridiron rage, Judge Indy leapt over the short fence, barrel-rolled through two security guards, and body-slammed the fan near the 20-yard line with the technique of a seasoned linebacker. The crowd went silent — and then exploded into cheers.
Referees immediately threw multiple flags.
“I’ve seen a lot of targeting calls in my day,” said head referee Carl Benson, “but never from a bear. Still, rules are rules.”
The incident sparked a 15-minute delay as officials huddled to consult the NCAA rulebook and local wildlife ordinances. Eventually, the verdict was handed down: targeting, unsportsmanlike conduct, and immediate ejection.
“We have no precedent for this,” Benson admitted in a post-game press conference. “But per NCAA bylaws, any participant on the sidelines who initiates forcible contact with the crown of the head is subject to ejection. That includes mascots — even furry, four-legged ones.”
Baylor fans were quick to defend their ursine enforcer.
“Look, if a man in orange comes for our bear, the bear has every right to respond,” said senior student Daryl Hughes, proudly wearing a shirt that read ‘Indy Hit Harder Than Your D-Line’. “Honestly, that was the most aggressive hit I’ve seen all season.”
Baylor’s head coach, while amused, attempted to defuse the situation.
“We train our players to keep their heads up and wrap up — and apparently, our bear’s been watching tape,” he joked. “But in all seriousness, safety’s important. We’ll be reviewing mascot protocol going forward.”
The opposing fan, identified only as “Brad from Austin,” was released from the stadium’s medical tent with minor bruises and a severely bruised ego.
“I just wanted a selfie,” Brad said. “Next thing I know, I’m flying through the air like a quarterback on third and long.”
Meanwhile, Judge Indy was escorted from the field with a mix of boos and bear-size cheers. Though he’ll miss the rest of the game (and potentially face a one-game suspension), fans are already calling for a commemorative statue — mid-slam, of course.
As the NCAA considers rulebook revisions, one thing is certain: don’t mess with Baylor’s bear — on or off the field.
And next time, maybe stay behind the fence.
